American Bus Association Picks Cleveland for 2017 Marketplace

The American Bus Association (ABA) has chosen Cleveland as the will host of the ABA’s annual Marketplace, scheduled Jan. 14-17, 2017, at the Cleveland Convention Center.

The ABA’s Marketplace is the motorcoach, travel and tourism industry’s top event

"The American Bus Association is thrilled when we can bring new cities into the ABA Marketplace family,” said President and CEO Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS.

He added, “Cleveland will be a fantastic host city. We know our members will have a great time, visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the city’s many other attractions, and, of course, generating tens of millions of dollars’ worth of travel and tourism business for Cleveland.”

ABA members attending Marketplace produce substantial economic impact for the host city. When ABA held its 2013 Marketplace in Charlotte, N.C., officials said the direct economic impact in lodging, entertainment, food and other activities was $7 million dollars.

Additionally, previous host cities have seen a 15-20 percent increase in motorcoach and group travel related tourism after Marketplace, because of increased awareness of the city by the travel and tourism industry.

It is anticipated that the 2017 Marketplace will result in more than 8,000 hotel room nights by the 3,500 members who will attend.

A single motorcoach visit to the region can generate as much as $11,660 for the local economy in lodging, meals and other spending.

In 2012, motorcoaches were responsible for nearly 650 million passenger trips, and many of those group tours are booked at Marketplace.

During the 2014 Marketplace in Nashville, the 3,500 members generated nearly $130 million dollars in total business, that’s nearly $89,000 per company.

“The ABA’s Marketplace is the Super Bowl for travel and tourism – and the City of Cleveland is honored to be able to host an event of this magnitude in January of 2017,” said David Gilbert, President and CEO of Positively Cleveland (CVB).

He added. “Much like the group tour industry, Cleveland is experiencing a rebirth with nearly $3 billion in visitor-related infrastructure developments that have enhanced the overall visitor experience. With that said, we are excited to introduce our city’s attractions, restaurants, and accommodations to the 3,500 members of ABA, while showcasing Cleveland as a top group tour destination.”

The ABA’s 2015 Marketplace will be held Jan. 10-13 in St. Louis, Mo. The 2016 Marketplace is scheduled Jan. 9-12 in Louisville, Ky.

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